NYRA Votes To Support Thoroughbred Horseracing Integrity Act

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Reorganization Board of Directors today voted to support the Thoroughbred Horseracing Integrity Act of 2015 (H. R. 3084). The vote was taken at the Board's regularly scheduled meeting in Manhattan.

This bill, introduced in July 2015 to the House of Representatives by Congressmen Andy Barr (R-KY) and Paul Tonko (D-NY), would establish the Thoroughbred Horseracing Anti-Doping Authority (THADA), an independent, private not-for-profit agency that would create a single set of rules throughout the United States for medication, testing programs to include research and development, and enforcement standards that are the same in each jurisdiction.

“The New York Racing Association has long been known for having the highest standards in testing for illegal performance-enhancing medication,” stated Christopher Kay, NYRA CEO and President. “Our equine safety program includes out-of-competition testing and random inspections of trainers' barns and veterinarians' vehicles for unauthorized substances. We were the first organization of its kind to provide 24/7 horse security coverage. We fully support national oversight through an independent agency to ensure that all jurisdictions are on a level playing field. We believe that uniform policies nationwide can only help further the credibility of the sport.”

Among the organizations which support the bill are Keeneland, the Breeders' Cup Ltd., the Humane Society of the United States, the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), The Jockey Club, the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, the Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners & Breeders and the Meadowlands.

The THADA would comprise the CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, five USADA board members and five people nominated by industry organizations and selected by USADA. No one would be able to serve on the THADA Board if they have an investment in horses, provide services in the horse industry or work for a horse industry organization.